The Watcher in the Shadows by Chris Moriarty (pub. Harcourt)Age range: 10–18"The magic is darker in this intense sequel to The Inquisitor’s Apprentice (2011)."East of the Sun, West of the Moon by Jackie Morris (pub. Frances Lincoln)Age range: 10–15"Reimagined for the 21st century, a familiar folk tale becomes a haunting love story and a reminder that first love may not last a lifetime."Rooftoppers by Katherine Rundell (pub. Simon & Schuster)Age range: 9–12"Brava! This witty, inventively poetic, fairy-tale–like adventure shimmers with love, magic and music ...'Never ignore a possible.' Sophie takes her beloved guardian's words to heart and never gives up on finding her long-lost mother. "Hokey Pokey by Jerry Spinelli (pub. Knopf)Age range: 10–13"A masterful, bittersweet recognition of coming-of-age," and "an inventive modern fable."

One Came Home by Amy Timberlake (pub. Knopf)Age range: 9–12"Georgie's story will capture readers' imaginations with the very first sentences and then hold them hostage until the final page is turned." (historical fiction) Navigating Early by Clare Vanderpool (pub. Delacorte)Age range: 10–14"Returning to themes she explored so affectingly in Moon Over Manifest (2011), Newbery Medalist Vanderpool delivers another winning picaresque about memories, personal journeys, interconnectedness—and the power of stories ... Navigating this stunning novel requires thought and concentration, but it's well worth the effort." (historical fiction).This list with the full review and publication details can be found at:https://www.kirkusreviews.com/lists/best-middle-grade-books-2013-pulses-pounding/

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

The following is a list of some of the middle-grade books I enjoyed reading in 2013. I've included a link to my review on Goodreads.com. Many of these books may have special appeal for boys, and some should attract reluctant readers.